The Schengen Area is a group of European countries that have abolished passports and other types of border control at their mutual borders. Romania and Bulgaria were eligible to join the Schengen Area, but Austria used its Veto power to block Romania's entry into the area.
One of the main reasons Austria used its Veto power to block Romania from joining the Schengen Area is concerns about corruption and the rule of law in Romania. Austria and other EU member states have long expressed concerns about corruption and Romania's lack of judicial independence. These concerns have been reinforced by reports from the European Commission highlighting shortcomings in Romania's efforts to fight corruption and reform its justice system.
Another reason for Austria's decision is related to Europe's migration crisis in recent years. Austria has been one of the countries most affected by the influx of migrants and refugees from the Middle East and Africa. The country has been calling for stricter border controls to limit the number of migrants and refugees entering the EU. Blocking Romania's entry into the Schengen Area would make it harder for migrants to enter the EU through Romania and move to other EU countries, including Austria.
Austria has also raised concerns about Romania's border security and the possibility of illegal migration. The country has argued that Romania's border security is not up to the standards required to join the Schengen Area and that this could increase illegal migration.
In conclusion, Austria has used its Veto power to block Romania from joining the Schengen Area due to concerns about corruption, the rule of law in Romania, the migration crisis, and the country's border security. These concerns have been reinforced by reports from the European Commission and the country's experience with the influx of migrants and refugees. This decision highlights the importance of addressing these issues and the need for further dialogue between EU member states to find a solution that addresses the concerns raised by Austria and other EU member states while also ensuring that Romania can join the Schengen Area in the future.
